Building out ZIP code based trade areas that all have around 250k population.

[HitchWorld]

I'm trying to figure out a way to build out non-overlapping, contiguous trade areas based on ZIP codes that each have around 250k people across the entire US.

[alexnajm]

What data are you using to find zip codes and their populations? You can download the Census Data from the downloads page and use the Allocate Input tools to do this

[HitchWorld]

I have a layer already with all of the ZIPs and their corresponding Population.  I'm now looking to see how to build them up so that in the end I have ~1,000 trade areas across the country that all mean that population threshold.

[alexnajm]

Can you just Filter to Population > 250K then? Also I would look at the Spatial Match to find where Target Touches Universe because it should show all of the "contiguous" areas together - it will likely result in a large dataset of duplicates "matches", so a Unique can help reduce that down

Without seeing the data you have, it's all just speculation so hopefully this helps!

[HitchWorld]

I want to add smaller ZIPs together so they combine to add up to 250K pop.

So yes, the Spatial Match does the "touches" universe and that would create a contiguous area but I'm trying to find a way that it keeps adding surrounding ZIPs until it crosses the 250K threshold and then that "trade area" comes off the list and it starts building another until we have a bunch of trade area all individually totaling 250K+ pop.

I've attached a screenshot sample of the data.  

[alexnajm]

In this case, you'd likely need an iterative macro to increment on adding polygons together based on some sort of logic - I am not sure what logic you'd want to use to "choose" one zip code versus another to group in to make the 250K threshold. For example, what if a zip code touches 4 other zip codes that could help it add to 250K? What's the "original" zip code to start with?

[HitchWorld]

Yeah, almost like it just includes everything instead of picking which ZIP to include, which would just have to be how it was.

Also, guess we'd just start with specific ZIPs, maybe one dominate one in each metro area and let it build out from there.

I've never had an ask like this before so trying to figure it out as I go.

[alexnajm]

Fair enough - it's a tough one so it definitely needs those decisions to be made thoughtfully!

[Qiu]

@HitchWorld 
If I understand your intention correctly, here is a post related to your topic.

https://community.alteryx.com/t5/Alteryx-Designer-Desktop-Discussions/Non-overlapping-Trade-Areas-of...

[educonnec]

Creating ZIP code-based trade areas with consistent population counts can be a challenge, especially when aiming for balanced demographics and optimal reach. For tools and apps that simplify data handling and area analysis, check out Uniques apps. They offer APKs that can support mapping, data visualization, and other utilities ideal for demographic studies and trade area development.